[Elecraft] KAT500 antenna port grounding?
Are the antenna ports on a KAT500 grounded when the unit is off? And are the unused ports grounded when one is selected and in use? I find no reference to this in the manual. Clint - W5CPT - __ Elecraft mailing list Home: http://mailman.qth.net/mailman/listinfo/elecraft Help: http://mailman.qth.net/mmfaq.htm Post: mailto:Elecraft@mailman.qth.net This list hosted by: http://www.qsl.net Please help support this email list: http://www.qsl.net/donate.html Message delivered to arch...@mail-archive.com
[Elecraft] KAT Autotune
New KAT500 owner here. I want to say thanks for the recent thread on the situation one member had with the Autotune between SSB & CW. I drive my KAT500 with an Icom IC-7300 and using the "Tune it in AUTO - Operate in MAN" scenario works perfectly. It even remembers different tunes for different antennas. I have a DXE 43' Vert for DX on 30 & 40M on ANT2 and a dipole for 40 & 80M for local chats on ANT3. The more I use this tuner the more impressed I am. I am presently waiting for a local ham to decide to upgrade his second station from a KPA500 to a KPA1500, as I am in line for that when he sells it. __ Elecraft mailing list Home: http://mailman.qth.net/mailman/listinfo/elecraft Help: http://mailman.qth.net/mmfaq.htm Post: mailto:Elecraft@mailman.qth.net This list hosted by: http://www.qsl.net Please help support this email list: http://www.qsl.net/donate.html Message delivered to arch...@mail-archive.com
[Elecraft] Fwd: KAT-500 interface cable question
From: Date: Fri, Nov 2, 2018 at 10:54 AM Subject: RE: [Elecraft] KAT-500 interface cable question To: Cc: Clint Talmadge Clint, I looked at that as a possibility, did a cursory look at an MFJ auto-tuner schematic, then decided that it was too easy to make one with spare parts and heat shrink. I would hate to spend $20 plus shipping - only to have to cut off the heat shrink on the MFJ cable, disassemble, do surgery to replace the Molex, and put on new heat shrink if I chose poorly. Using the home brew cable, my 7300 and 7100 both work well with the KAT500 which I use with a KPA500. Next projects will be to make a patching switch to pop between the two for when I do simplex DV on HF. I have not tried to use my KX3 with the KPA/KAT500 combo, but assume it would be easy. KD4IZ Jack Spitznagel FM19oo Jack - etal - I checked my parts and did not have the 4 Pin Molex needed, or the 2.1mm power plug. In looking for the Molex connector I found the cable which is exactly what is needed. The connectors and the wiring are as specified in the manual. When I first looked into it I thought the sleeve of the 3.5mm Stereo plug was left open but it was pointed out to me that it is in fact also ties to pin 4 of the Moles which is ground. You are very correct about the $20 plus shipping but I figured I would have to order the other two connectors and pay shipping on them also. One of the joys of living "out in the woods" is being able to string wires and install towers any where you want, but when you need a part you get to pay shipping. __ Elecraft mailing list Home: http://mailman.qth.net/mailman/listinfo/elecraft Help: http://mailman.qth.net/mmfaq.htm Post: mailto:Elecraft@mailman.qth.net This list hosted by: http://www.qsl.net Please help support this email list: http://www.qsl.net/donate.html Message delivered to arch...@mail-archive.com
Re: [Elecraft] KAT-500 interface cable question
On Fri, Nov 2, 2018 at 10:10 AM Don Wilhelm wrote: > The wiring for the Icom AH4 Interface is detailed on page 8 of the > KAT500 manual. Pin 4 of the Molex connector is connected to the shield > (shell) of the T-R-S plug. > > I don't know how the MFJ cable is wired. > > BTW - there are no hyphens in Elecraft product designations, so it is > the "KAT500" and not the "KAT-500". > > 73, > Don W3FPR > You are correct sir. The MFJ cable is wired exactly as the table in the KAT500 manual. And mea culpa on the dash in the desiginator. I won't do that again. Thank you, p.s. I ordered my KAT500 this morning. The next item on my "gonna get" list is the KPA500. __ Elecraft mailing list Home: http://mailman.qth.net/mailman/listinfo/elecraft Help: http://mailman.qth.net/mmfaq.htm Post: mailto:Elecraft@mailman.qth.net This list hosted by: http://www.qsl.net Please help support this email list: http://www.qsl.net/donate.html Message delivered to arch...@mail-archive.com
[Elecraft] KAT-500 interface cable question
New guy here with a question. I am about to get a KAT-500 to mate to my IC-7300. In searching for the Molex connector I need to make an interface cable for the radio to the tuner, I came across the MFJ-5124I cable which MFJ sells to mate their 99* series auto-tuners to Icom radios. The connectors on the tuner end are the same as used on the KAT-500. The wiring is the same with one addition. Where there is no ground connection from the sleeve of the 3.5MM stereo plug specified in the KAT-500 manual, the MFJ cable has the sleeve connected to the ground pin of the Icom connector. Seeing the that the sleeve of the 3.5mm stereo connector on the KAT-500 is chassis grounded anyway I think I can use the MFJ cable to interface my KAT-500 to my IC-7300. Does anyone see the flaw in my thinking? (about the cable, not the radio) de W5CPT __ Elecraft mailing list Home: http://mailman.qth.net/mailman/listinfo/elecraft Help: http://mailman.qth.net/mmfaq.htm Post: mailto:Elecraft@mailman.qth.net This list hosted by: http://www.qsl.net Please help support this email list: http://www.qsl.net/donate.html Message delivered to arch...@mail-archive.com
[Elecraft] OT: HF weather fax
I am looking for a simple Windows 7, 8, 10 program that can decode NOAA HF weather faxes using a laptop soundcard. I am helping my bro set-up his boat and a Marine SSB/Ham radio. Most programs I see are older, run Lunix or are to complex, we need something simple. Any ideas? Clint KI6SSN __ Elecraft mailing list Home: http://mailman.qth.net/mailman/listinfo/elecraft Help: http://mailman.qth.net/mmfaq.htm Post: mailto:Elecraft@mailman.qth.net This list hosted by: http://www.qsl.net Please help support this email list: http://www.qsl.net/donate.html Message delivered to arch...@mail-archive.com
[Elecraft] 12 volt battery
All the talk about off grid operation has me wondering: Would it be wise, or helpful, to ground the negitive side of the battery to the shack/house ground system (if the charging system is isolated)? How about while operating in the field/RV? Clint Stark KI6SSN We do not inherit the earth from our ancestors; we borrow it from our children. ~ Native American Proverb __ Elecraft mailing list Home: http://mailman.qth.net/mailman/listinfo/elecraft Help: http://mailman.qth.net/mmfaq.htm Post: mailto:Elecraft@mailman.qth.net This list hosted by: http://www.qsl.net Please help support this email list: http://www.qsl.net/donate.html
[Elecraft] OT- PL259
Does anyone know the MFG and PN of a Clamp/Solder type PL259. This style clamps the shield with a nut and ferrule and has a silicone gasket to keep water out. The center can be crimped and/or soldered. Thanks, Clint KI6SSN __ Elecraft mailing list Home: http://mailman.qth.net/mailman/listinfo/elecraft Help: http://mailman.qth.net/mmfaq.htm Post: mailto:Elecraft@mailman.qth.net This list hosted by: http://www.qsl.net Please help support this email list: http://www.qsl.net/donate.html
[Elecraft] cases
Hi All, I stumbled across a company that sells the hardware to build your own custom hard cases. I thought maybe some of you would be interested. I have no financial interest in this company, etc. In fact I have not ordered anything from them, yet. http://www.reliablehardware.com/ Clint KI6SSN Watsonville, CA We do not inherit the earth from our ancestors; we borrow it from our children. ~ Native American Proverb __ Elecraft mailing list Home: http://mailman.qth.net/mailman/listinfo/elecraft Help: http://mailman.qth.net/mmfaq.htm Post: mailto:Elecraft@mailman.qth.net This list hosted by: http://www.qsl.net Please help support this email list: http://www.qsl.net/donate.html
[Elecraft] DC Buck Boost
FYI, there are a ton of these on eBay and here: http://www.prodctodc.com/ I have no interest, bla, bla. I have been monkeying around with them and in real life (I have no test equipment) they work well. I am building a 18650, 5,000 mah 8 cell battery pack with a monitoring board and a buck converter for my KX3. So far the biggest issue is the dang battery holders. The wire is way small so I have to come up with s screw/nut scheme to attach heaver wire to. They cannot be soldered as they melt. 73, Clint KI6SSN We do not inherit the earth from our ancestors; we borrow it from our children. ~ Native American Proverb __ Elecraft mailing list Home: http://mailman.qth.net/mailman/listinfo/elecraft Help: http://mailman.qth.net/mmfaq.htm Post: mailto:Elecraft@mailman.qth.net This list hosted by: http://www.qsl.net Please help support this email list: http://www.qsl.net/donate.html
[Elecraft] Digital Radio Mondiale
I am wondering about using my KX3, the I/Q output, a good USB sound card and software XX to listen to DRM (Digital Radio Mondiale) (http://www.drm.org/). Reading up on it I realized I was in over my head (a common condition). The receivers they show as compatible (http://www.drmradio.dk/Bilradio%20og%20PC-forsatse-en.htm) are SDRs so I'm thinking what about my KX3? Has anyone tried this? Do I need more/different equipment? What do yall think? __ Elecraft mailing list Home: http://mailman.qth.net/mailman/listinfo/elecraft Help: http://mailman.qth.net/mmfaq.htm Post: mailto:Elecraft@mailman.qth.net This list hosted by: http://www.qsl.net Please help support this email list: http://www.qsl.net/donate.html
[Elecraft] Hardware
Has anyone heard anything about stainless / corrosion restant hardware for the mighty KX3? How about new/better speaker and/or AF amp retrofit kit? I know this is a tough deal, getting good sound out of dinky speakers but the industry is getting good at it. I have built a few small external speaker units that work great but they are just one more thing to carry. Thanks, Clint KI6SSN (from the beach in Cancun ;)) __ Elecraft mailing list Home: http://mailman.qth.net/mailman/listinfo/elecraft Help: http://mailman.qth.net/mmfaq.htm Post: mailto:Elecraft@mailman.qth.net This list hosted by: http://www.qsl.net Please help support this email list: http://www.qsl.net/donate.html
[Elecraft] BL2
I just received my BL2 kit. I want to weatherproof it. I am going to replace the BNC with a UHF (mounted on the enclosure) and maybe do something different with the balanced line connectors. My questions are: Can I enclose it in a die cast aluminum box or should I use plastic? Will there be any effect RF wise using metal, besides shielding? Thanks, Clint KI6SSN __ Elecraft mailing list Home: http://mailman.qth.net/mailman/listinfo/elecraft Help: http://mailman.qth.net/mmfaq.htm Post: mailto:Elecraft@mailman.qth.net This list hosted by: http://www.qsl.net Please help support this email list: http://www.qsl.net/donate.html
[Elecraft] Windows 8
Just FYI. I just installed Windows 8 on my new Dell i7. I can report no issues with the KX3 Utility. It worked flawlessly, so far. Have not tried K3 utility yet. Now if I can just figure out how to transfer all my stuff off the old Dell.. __ Elecraft mailing list Home: http://mailman.qth.net/mailman/listinfo/elecraft Help: http://mailman.qth.net/mmfaq.htm Post: mailto:Elecraft@mailman.qth.net This list hosted by: http://www.qsl.net Please help support this email list: http://www.qsl.net/donate.html
[Elecraft] KX3 Reception issue and VFO noise
Last week I finished building my KX3, SN 1926. Wow, what a little powerhouse. I am not a contester but this past weekend the California QSO party was on so I jumped in a few times just to see how my little guy was doing. I noticed a few not so good things. First there was lots of VFO noise. VFO NR helped but did not kill it. Second I had a loose/bad connection somewhere. I could bump the radio and reception would change drastically. Bummer! Yesterday I jumped back into the radio. I noticed the bare area with no paint on the side panels had a stripe of paint on the bottom (outer) edge. This SHOULD have cleared the main chassis but I suspected it did not completely clear. As this was the area that responded the most to my bumping exercise I removed the strip of paint. I also checked the Mic jack as it has a ground connection. It was OK. I also cleaned (again) the bare aluminum areas and applied a light coat of Deoxit Gold. Well, this has fixed the reception problem. No more goofy reception, and I suspect transmission too, and the VFO noise is reduced. I did reseat the filter board, the flex connector and the auto tuner. I also applied (again) a light coat of Deoxit Gold (mine is cut 50% with IPA) but I found no issues with any of the connections and I had applied Deoxit during assembly, as a preventive measure. So there you have it, for what it is worth. Clint KI6SSN __ Elecraft mailing list Home: http://mailman.qth.net/mailman/listinfo/elecraft Help: http://mailman.qth.net/mmfaq.htm Post: mailto:Elecraft@mailman.qth.net This list hosted by: http://www.qsl.net Please help support this email list: http://www.qsl.net/donate.html
[Elecraft] SWL
Wayne, Eric and crew, Soo, would it be possible to add another band that would be for SWL only? That way the standard bands would no get jumbled. Also, how about a menu item that would restrict transmitting according to you license. In other words a Tech, General and Extra setting to keep us short term memory guys out of trouble?? Thanks, Clint KI6SSN __ Elecraft mailing list Home: http://mailman.qth.net/mailman/listinfo/elecraft Help: http://mailman.qth.net/mmfaq.htm Post: mailto:Elecraft@mailman.qth.net This list hosted by: http://www.qsl.net Please help support this email list: http://www.qsl.net/donate.html
Re: [Elecraft] USB Sound Adaptor
Richard, WOW, how can anyone make money with a price like that? It does not mention speed or bit depth or chip however, so I went to the mfg web site, SYBA USA. This is not the same device. The one we bought is a SD-AUD20101 (http://sybausa.com/productInfo.php?iid=1191currentPage=0) so don't feel bad about paying more! I have been using it as a sound card and it is working well but I am not set up for I/Q signals Just waiting for my KX3... Clint - Original Message - From: Richard Fjeld rpfj...@embarqmail.com To: Clint clint.st...@sbcglobal.net Cc: elecraft posting elecraft@mailman.qth.net Sent: Wednesday, September 12, 2012 6:58 AM Subject: Re: [Elecraft] USB Sound Adaptor Don't you just hate when this happens after you (and I) have already bought it. This site has them for $1.69 Has anyone verified if this will actually function in place of a USB soundcard for pan-adapter use? http://www.ebay.com/itm/Black-External-USB-2-0-3D-Virtual-Audio-Sound-Card-Adapter-Converter-7-1-CH-/320972694617?_trksid=p5713.m2062_trkparms=aid%3D555001%26algo%3DPW.CURRENT%26ao%3D1%26asc%3D26%26meid%3D1993749845807054531%26pid%3D100042%26prg%3D1010%26rk%3D7%26 Rich, n0ce - Original Message - From: Clint clint.st...@sbcglobal.net To: elecraft@mailman.qth.net Sent: Wednesday, August 29, 2012 12:37 PM Subject: [Elecraft] USB Sound Adaptor I received the USB Dongle yesterday. ( http://cgi.ebay.com/ws/eBayISAPI.dll?ViewItemitem=310401470794ssPageName=ADME:L:OU:US:3160 ) First, it IS stereo in and stereo out. There is some confusing wording even on the packaging but it is indeed stereo all around. Someone suggested that the chip MAY not be as advertised. As this IS from China (with a Taiwanese chip) and having dealt with Asia for decades, I opened it (not recommended for the inexperienced, it is glued shut). It is indeed the Via Vinyl Envy USB VT-1620A chip ( http://www.via.com.tw/en/products/audio/usb/vt1620a/index.jsp ). The Via driver from their web site loaded and recognized the chip so I am 100% sure it is genuine. It should be capable of: a.. 2-channel ADC with 90dB SNR, 16/24-bit supporting 44.1/48/96/192kHz sample rates a.. 2-channel DAC with 95dB SNR, 16/24-bit supporting 44.1/48/96/192kHz sample rates I have some photos if anyone is interested. It is a nice little board and looks to be well made. Both the input (Mic) and output (Headphones and SPDIF optical) are standard 1/8 stereo jacks with the output having the additional optical coupler mounted just past the electrical contacts. It works great with HRD but I have no way of testing it for I/Q use as my KX3 is still a dream and my K3 is not equipped for I/Q out. Maybe someone better equipped and more knowledgeable could put this little guy through some tests??? If so contact me. FYI my QTH is Watsonville. BTW, I have no financial interest in this at all. This is all just FYI and me getting ready for my KX3 when the CFO gives me the go ahead. 73 Clint KI6SSN __ Elecraft mailing list Home: http://mailman.qth.net/mailman/listinfo/elecraft Help: http://mailman.qth.net/mmfaq.htm Post: mailto:Elecraft@mailman.qth.net This list hosted by: http://www.qsl.net Please help support this email list: http://www.qsl.net/donate.html __ Elecraft mailing list Home: http://mailman.qth.net/mailman/listinfo/elecraft Help: http://mailman.qth.net/mmfaq.htm Post: mailto:Elecraft@mailman.qth.net This list hosted by: http://www.qsl.net Please help support this email list: http://www.qsl.net/donate.html
[Elecraft] USB Sound Adaptor
I received the USB Dongle yesterday. ( http://cgi.ebay.com/ws/eBayISAPI.dll?ViewItemitem=310401470794ssPageName=ADME:L:OU:US:3160 ) First, it IS stereo in and stereo out. There is some confusing wording even on the packaging but it is indeed stereo all around. Someone suggested that the chip MAY not be as advertised. As this IS from China (with a Taiwanese chip) and having dealt with Asia for decades, I opened it (not recommended for the inexperienced, it is glued shut). It is indeed the Via Vinyl Envy USB VT-1620A chip ( http://www.via.com.tw/en/products/audio/usb/vt1620a/index.jsp ). The Via driver from their web site loaded and recognized the chip so I am 100% sure it is genuine. It should be capable of: a.. 2-channel ADC with 90dB SNR, 16/24-bit supporting 44.1/48/96/192kHz sample rates a.. 2-channel DAC with 95dB SNR, 16/24-bit supporting 44.1/48/96/192kHz sample rates I have some photos if anyone is interested. It is a nice little board and looks to be well made. Both the input (Mic) and output (Headphones and SPDIF optical) are standard 1/8 stereo jacks with the output having the additional optical coupler mounted just past the electrical contacts. It works great with HRD but I have no way of testing it for I/Q use as my KX3 is still a dream and my K3 is not equipped for I/Q out. Maybe someone better equipped and more knowledgeable could put this little guy through some tests??? If so contact me. FYI my QTH is Watsonville. BTW, I have no financial interest in this at all. This is all just FYI and me getting ready for my KX3 when the CFO gives me the go ahead. 73 Clint KI6SSN __ Elecraft mailing list Home: http://mailman.qth.net/mailman/listinfo/elecraft Help: http://mailman.qth.net/mmfaq.htm Post: mailto:Elecraft@mailman.qth.net This list hosted by: http://www.qsl.net Please help support this email list: http://www.qsl.net/donate.html
[Elecraft] USB Sound Adapter
I found an adaptor based on the VIA Envy VT1620A . ( http://www.via.com.tw/en/products/audio/usb/vt1620a/index.jsp ) It is on eBay for $14.00! : http://www.ebay.com/itm/plug-into-USB-Stereo-Sound-Adapter-Easily-Fix-Upgrade-Computer-Sound-System-/310401470794?_trksid=p5197.m1992_trkparms=aid%3D111000%26algo%3DREC.CURRENT%26ao%3D1%26asc%3D14%26meid%3D1535698449564030522%26pid%3D100015%26prg%3D1006%26rk%3D1%26 Now lets see if it works. Should get a chance to try next week. Grandkids first, then home and play with K3... Clint KI6SSN __ Elecraft mailing list Home: http://mailman.qth.net/mailman/listinfo/elecraft Help: http://mailman.qth.net/mmfaq.htm Post: mailto:Elecraft@mailman.qth.net This list hosted by: http://www.qsl.net Please help support this email list: http://www.qsl.net/donate.html
[Elecraft] Apple 30 pin
Guys, I don't know if this got covered so here goes. The Apple 30 pin connector has stereo line in and tons of other stuff. See: http://pinouts.ru/PortableDevices/ipod_pinout.shtml (It is RU but safe) Clint KI6SSN __ Elecraft mailing list Home: http://mailman.qth.net/mailman/listinfo/elecraft Help: http://mailman.qth.net/mmfaq.htm Post: mailto:Elecraft@mailman.qth.net This list hosted by: http://www.qsl.net Please help support this email list: http://www.qsl.net/donate.html
[Elecraft] To ground or not to ground
OK, this is OT, sort of. It will be connected to my K3 so.. I just bought a remote mast mounted antenna switch (Ameritron RSC-8V). It comes with the center conductor electrically floating when the port is OFF. It seems to me I would be better off (safer) if the center conductor was grounded (or had a gas discharge tube or choke or resistor or??? when OFF. What do ya think? One thing is for darn sure, I am going to paint the cruddy polystyrene box and steel brackets (with Rust Bullet FYI), clean off the flux and coat the PC board before it sees the costal weather! Caulking will be in order also. Salty rain and spray are nasty even 5 miles in. 73, Clint KI6SSN __ Elecraft mailing list Home: http://mailman.qth.net/mailman/listinfo/elecraft Help: http://mailman.qth.net/mmfaq.htm Post: mailto:Elecraft@mailman.qth.net This list hosted by: http://www.qsl.net Please help support this email list: http://www.qsl.net/donate.html
[Elecraft] RF on pipes
This is a bit OT but it does concern my K3. Hopefully this will not open too big of a can-o-worms. As an experiment to try and achieve a very low impedance ground system, I am using 1 inch rigid copper tubing for my station and Vertical Antenna grounds and ½ copper refer tubing to tie together my ground rods and the mains ground. ANYWAY, I know that RF travels on the outside skin of a conductor. My question is: Does it also travel on the inside skin? In other words, would the impedance be the same on a round hollow tube as it would be if the tube was slit and laid out flat? Thanks, Clint KI6SSN __ Elecraft mailing list Home: http://mailman.qth.net/mailman/listinfo/elecraft Help: http://mailman.qth.net/mmfaq.htm Post: mailto:Elecraft@mailman.qth.net This list hosted by: http://www.qsl.net Please help support this email list: http://www.qsl.net/donate.html
[Elecraft] Firmware load issue
I just had an issue installing the Beta firmware (3.97 - 2.58) on my K3. The first 2 times I tried, the DSP load failed on both 1 2. As I just installed a new RS232 card in my computer (my USB-232 converter scheme was quite noisy) I assumed something was wrong with the new set-up. I went in and checked all the settings on the computer and K3. A-OK so I tried again. This time DSP 1 loaded OK but DSP 2 failed again. I re-checked my new RS232 set-up and it works great with HRD and the Elecraft utility (I used to get noise when the utility polled the K3), noise issue completely gone. I tried again after setting the I/O buffers a bit lower on the computer port settings, no joy. As this last attempt was in progress I noticed the S meter was very busy. After it was done (failed), I turned the RF gain (and AF gain) all the way down and tried once more. Bingo! Anybody else ever notice this? Clint KI6SSN __ Information from ESET NOD32 Antivirus, version of virus signature database 5154 (20100528) __ The message was checked by ESET NOD32 Antivirus. http://www.eset.com __ Elecraft mailing list Home: http://mailman.qth.net/mailman/listinfo/elecraft Help: http://mailman.qth.net/mmfaq.htm Post: mailto:Elecraft@mailman.qth.net This list hosted by: http://www.qsl.net Please help support this email list: http://www.qsl.net/donate.html
[Elecraft] antenna farm
Fellow Elecrafters, I have a feeling this may open the flood gates but here goes. I am a newbie Ham but a long time SWL going back to my Knight Kit Star Roamer. I am fixin' to set-up my antenna farm. OK, it will be more like an antenna garden as I have a small house and lot. My K3/100 has a KAT3 and KRX3. I plan on using 3 Dipoles and maybe an inverted V for diversity receive (what a great feature). I got on Google Earth and plotted out the areas I am interested in. I live just up the street from Elecrafts new HQ (talk about fast service) on the central coast of California (CM96CX). A bearing of 118 deg (antenna runs from 28 to 208 deg) cuts across Central America and South America on one side and across Manila and Singapore, skirting Japan, on the other (298 deg). This is a great coverage for me as I used to live in Singapore and spent lots of time in Asia (work) and Central America (not work). The next one is 32 deg (antenna runs from 122 to 302 deg) which cuts through London and Rome on to the Middle East. The other side is not too much, Tahiti and the South Pacific. I am thinking of a reflector on this one as there is not allot at 212 deg that interests me and that should help with Europe, I think. The next one is 78 deg (antenna runs from 122 to 302 deg) which cuts across the US through North Carolina, Bermuda and on to South Africa. The other side, 258 deg, runs through the Solomon Islands and right down the middle of Australia to Perth. I know the lobes will spread way out from these bearings over these long distances but these numbers are a starting point. The antennas will also cross forming a pattern similar to an asterisk on my roof/lot, a good thing I am guessing. I was thinking about Inverted V's for most of these until I checked what the side lobes would pick-up. On the 118 deg antenna it would be the South Pacific (no problem) and Europe (big interference problem while shooting for C/S America and SE Asia). The 32 deg would pick-up Japan, SE Asia on one side lobe and Mexico, Central America on the other. Too many unwanted signals if I am trying for Europe. The 78 deg side lobes would pick-up Alaska, central Russia and west India on one side and the South Pacific, places like Pitcairn, and on to Antarctica. Maybe an inverted V would be OK on this one. The Diversity may be a big inverted V or just an L shape long wire. I laid out a spread sheet with the lengths for a Dipole plus 15 deg, 22 deg, 30 deg, 37 deg, 45 deg, 60 deg and 75 deg inverted V's from 160 to 2 meters using the center of the Extra class bands (my next conquest) looking for some magic number. Nothing jumps out at me but of course a ¼ wave 80 is close to a ½ wave 40, a ½ 60, ¼ 30 and so on. I think I can squeeze in a ¼ wave 80 meter dipole (~31.2 feet/side) in most directions and maybe a shorter one above this (easiest for me but technically wrong?). The longer one higher may be possible but won't be easy. 160 meters will be another project for another day. So my questions are: 1) What length would be best and give me the use of the most bands? Remember, I have a limited space. 2) How far from the dipole should a reflector be. It should be about 5% longer and grounded, right? 3) The auto-tuner on the K3 is amazing. Is it easier for it to tune an antenna that is to long or to short? I'm guessing long but I am not certain. 4) Any suggestions on which band/antenna length is best for these targets? I am mostly active late afternoon and evening (till about 10 PST) and mornings after 6. Thanks, Clint KI6SSN __ Information from ESET NOD32 Antivirus, version of virus signature database 4687 (20091214) __ The message was checked by ESET NOD32 Antivirus. http://www.eset.com __ Elecraft mailing list Home: http://mailman.qth.net/mailman/listinfo/elecraft Help: http://mailman.qth.net/mmfaq.htm Post: mailto:Elecraft@mailman.qth.net This list hosted by: http://www.qsl.net Please help support this email list: http://www.qsl.net/donate.html
[Elecraft] USB noise
Hi All, I have a problem with my Brand X USB to serial converter or cable that I have not seen addressed here. It works fine except when I access it, it introduces noise to my K3. This noise sounds like QRN and it happens only if I open the K3 utility or HRD. It does not seem to affect the S meter. I have snap-on chokes at both ends of the USB cable. The strange thing is I just started noticing this a few months ago, before that it worked without adding noise (I think). It functions OK and does what it is supposed to, except for the noise. It is connected to a Dell 5100 PC running Windows XP SP3 fully updated. Any ideas??? Clint KI6SSN __ Information from ESET NOD32 Antivirus, version of virus signature database 4625 (20091120) __ The message was checked by ESET NOD32 Antivirus. http://www.eset.com __ Elecraft mailing list Home: http://mailman.qth.net/mailman/listinfo/elecraft Help: http://mailman.qth.net/mmfaq.htm Post: mailto:Elecraft@mailman.qth.net This list hosted by: http://www.qsl.net Please help support this email list: http://www.qsl.net/donate.html
[Elecraft] test
Just a test. Clint __ Information from ESET NOD32 Antivirus, version of virus signature database 4610 (20091115) __ The message was checked by ESET NOD32 Antivirus. http://www.eset.com __ Elecraft mailing list Home: http://mailman.qth.net/mailman/listinfo/elecraft Help: http://mailman.qth.net/mmfaq.htm Post: mailto:Elecraft@mailman.qth.net This list hosted by: http://www.qsl.net Please help support this email list: http://www.qsl.net/donate.html
[Elecraft] K3 FSK External Pullup
Is an External Pullup resistor needed on the FSK (ACC pin 1) input line? One of our Navigator Interface users reported that if the FSK line is also tied to an external pullup resistor, that it caused his K3 to refuse to stay powered up when the cable was connected. He subsequently removed the pullup and the system operated normall. The pullup resistor is a 4.7K through a diode to +5V. Our original cables for the K3 were wired with this pullup connected, and no problems have been reported until now. We will remove the pullup connection from our drawing since it is not needed, and all future cables will not have this connection. Has there been a change in the K3 that would cause this problem? If so, if earler users upgrade their units to lastest specs, will they also have this problem? Clint KK7UQ ___ Elecraft mailing list Post to: Elecraft@mailman.qth.net You must be a subscriber to post to the list. Subscriber Info (Addr. Change, sub, unsub etc.): http://mailman.qth.net/mailman/listinfo/elecraft Help: http://mailman.qth.net/subscribers.htm Elecraft web page: http://www.elecraft.com
[Elecraft] Hexkey spade terminal lugs?
Anyone know where I can buy the spade connection terminal lugs that are on the bottom of the hexkey? Looking for both male female connectors. Thanks, Clint WS1V __ Do You Yahoo!? Tired of spam? Yahoo! Mail has the best spam protection around http://mail.yahoo.com ___ Elecraft mailing list Post to: Elecraft@mailman.qth.net You must be a subscriber to post to the list. Subscriber Info (Addr. Change, sub, unsub etc.): http://mailman.qth.net/mailman/listinfo/elecraft Help: http://mailman.qth.net/subscribers.htm Elecraft web page: http://www.elecraft.com
[Elecraft] Success !!
I motivated myself this weak to finish my CMOS4 keyer kit which I've had sitting here on the desk since April. Put the batteries in today and the little keyer gave me the OK. This is only the 2nd kit I've put together the 1st one was an AMECO Code practice oscillator I built back in 1976 to practice code to get my Novic license .. I could have used a torch to solder in those components, but realized I had to be a little more careful with the CMOS4 kit :) I want to thank everyone here who gave me information encouragement, plus obtaining the wealth of information from reading the archives, this all help with this successful build. Now do I get the courage enough to attempt and Elecraft kit maybe soon!! 73, Clint WS1V __ Do You Yahoo!? Tired of spam? Yahoo! Mail has the best spam protection around http://mail.yahoo.com ___ Elecraft mailing list Post to: Elecraft@mailman.qth.net You must be a subscriber to post to the list. Subscriber Info (Addr. Change, sub, unsub etc.): http://mailman.qth.net/mailman/listinfo/elecraft Help: http://mailman.qth.net/subscribers.htm Elecraft web page: http://www.elecraft.com
[Elecraft] Construction question
I'm attempting my 1st contruction project in many years... CMOS4 keyer, and I have what is probably a pretty stupid question that maybe others can answer for me here. When you install a component on the printed side of the circuit board, and then you tip the board over to solder, what are accepted methods to keep the compenent from falling off? I've read that you should bend the leads to hold the component onto the board but I was wondering if this is the only acceptable way? Thanks for you info, 73 - Clint - WS1V __ Do You Yahoo!? Tired of spam? Yahoo! Mail has the best spam protection around http://mail.yahoo.com ___ Elecraft mailing list Post to: Elecraft@mailman.qth.net You must be a subscriber to post to the list. Subscriber Info (Addr. Change, sub, unsub etc.): http://mailman.qth.net/mailman/listinfo/elecraft Help: http://mailman.qth.net/subscribers.htm Elecraft web page: http://www.elecraft.com
[Elecraft] suffix /qrp
If a station signs Callsign/qrp do they want me to log them that way? This would be an issue if I use LOTW or E-Qsl Just been on my mind!! :) 73 - Clint - WS1V .. __ Do You Yahoo!? Tired of spam? Yahoo! Mail has the best spam protection around http://mail.yahoo.com ___ Elecraft mailing list Post to: Elecraft@mailman.qth.net You must be a subscriber to post to the list. Subscriber Info (Addr. Change, sub, unsub etc.): http://mailman.qth.net/mailman/listinfo/elecraft Help: http://mailman.qth.net/subscribers.htm Elecraft web page: http://www.elecraft.com
[Elecraft] Rig - Computer Interface
Sorry for this off topic, but if figured I'd ask here.. I've been considering a Rig - Computer interface since I would like to start working some of the digital modes. I've been eye'n the West Mountain interfaces for awhile, but last nite I read some positive information on the Tigertronics SignalLink units. I have some older equipement(tubes knobs), and some newer equipment, and possibly soon a K2, and I want an interface that will easily work with all. So I'm looking for some pros/cons and what rig you are using it with? Thanks for your reply, 73 - Clint - WS1V __ Yahoo! DSL Something to write home about. Just $16.99/mo. or less. dsl.yahoo.com ___ Elecraft mailing list Post to: Elecraft@mailman.qth.net You must be a subscriber to post to the list. Subscriber Info (Addr. Change, sub, unsub etc.): http://mailman.qth.net/mailman/listinfo/elecraft Help: http://mailman.qth.net/subscribers.htm Elecraft web page: http://www.elecraft.com
[Elecraft] Those nasty little rosin spots
Finally stated building my CMOS4 keyer, and I was going to ask this group what they thought about cleaning rosin off...but after reading the archives I see this has been a hot topic for discussion previously. Guess I'll have to decide for myself if it is really worth it.. :) I'm using the reccommeded solder so I guess I'm all set there. Have fun!! 73 - Clint - WS1V __ Yahoo! DSL Something to write home about. Just $16.99/mo. or less. dsl.yahoo.com ___ Elecraft mailing list Post to: Elecraft@mailman.qth.net You must be a subscriber to post to the list. Subscriber Info (Addr. Change, sub, unsub etc.): http://mailman.qth.net/mailman/listinfo/elecraft Help: http://mailman.qth.net/subscribers.htm Elecraft web page: http://www.elecraft.com
[Elecraft] Bencher/Hex-Key dust covers?
Can anyone reccomend someone that makes dust covers for Bencher paddles/Hex Keys? So far google has only turned up some dead information. 73, Clint WS1V __ Yahoo! Mail - PC Magazine Editors' Choice 2005 http://mail.yahoo.com ___ Elecraft mailing list Post to: Elecraft@mailman.qth.net You must be a subscriber to post to the list. Subscriber Info (Addr. Change, sub, unsub etc.): http://mailman.qth.net/mailman/listinfo/elecraft Help: http://mailman.qth.net/subscribers.htm Elecraft web page: http://www.elecraft.com
[Elecraft] Contest... cq sp?
Heard a bunch of stations last nite on 40CW calling CQ sp test exchange was state power(w) I searched all the contest listing but couldn't find a contest that was being run at this time. Anyone know what contest this was, and where I can find a good webpage listing all contest activity? 73, Clint WS1V __ Yahoo! FareChase: Search multiple travel sites in one click. http://farechase.yahoo.com ___ Elecraft mailing list Post to: Elecraft@mailman.qth.net You must be a subscriber to post to the list. Subscriber Info (Addr. Change, sub, unsub etc.): http://mailman.qth.net/mailman/listinfo/elecraft Help: http://mailman.qth.net/subscribers.htm Elecraft web page: http://www.elecraft.com
[Elecraft] Re: First Elecraft kit completed.
Jeff, Sounds like a good way to start, I'm starting with an Idiom Press CMOS 4 Keyer, then I'll tackle some Elecraft kit. 73, Clint WS1V From: Jeff Rosenberger [EMAIL PROTECTED] Subject: [Elecraft] First Elecraft kit completed. To: Elecraft@mailman.qth.net Message-ID: [EMAIL PROTECTED] Content-Type: text/plain; charset=ISO-8859-1; format=flowed You'll notice I didn't say on the air. That's because my first kit was the lowly DL1 Dummy Load. I plan to eventually build a K2, but that didn't seem like a good place to start. Next on the block are a Norcal 40A and a T1. I can't wait to make the first contact using equipment I built. Gotta sharpen up my CW first though :) For those that worry about the increasing age of the ham population, I'm 22 years old. I'm just getting in to kit building now that I have a real job and real disposable income. Jeff N3SX/1 __ Do You Yahoo!? Tired of spam? Yahoo! Mail has the best spam protection around http://mail.yahoo.com ___ Elecraft mailing list Post to: Elecraft@mailman.qth.net You must be a subscriber to post to the list. Subscriber Info (Addr. Change, sub, unsub etc.): http://mailman.qth.net/mailman/listinfo/elecraft Help: http://mailman.qth.net/subscribers.htm Elecraft web page: http://www.elecraft.com
